On the availability of Josh Bailey for Thursday in Tampa Bay: “I haven’t ruled him out.”

On his goaltending rotation: “They’re both going to play. There’s a rhyme and reason to it.”

On Bruno Gervais practicing at forward: “If we decide to go with seven D, it gives Bruno a comfort level playing up front. It’s also good from a conditioning standpoint.”

Gordon wasn’t sure if Trent Hunter was good to go for the Lightning. “I don’t have word yet,” said the coach. “This was his first practice.”

On Lightning star Steven Stamkos: “It’s like Crosby and Ovechkin – they’re going to get their chances.” Gordon said it’s important his team does the right things offensively, so Stamkos’ time is limited with the puck.

*

10:20 am, NVMC: The Islanders have not recalled anyone from Bridgeport (AHL) yet today. Trent Hunter (foot injury) is skating on the fourth line. Bruno Gervais is practicing as a forward, wearing the same light blue jersey as Nino Niederreiter, Doug Weight and Michael Grabner. Since the Islanders are carrying eight defensemen – all on one-way contracts – and one extra forward, they have no room on the 23-man roster if they don’t place a player on the Injured list.

Notes: Today begins the Islanders’ annual Fathers Trip. Most of the players and coaches will have their dads or a mentor staying with them on the two-game trek in Florida. It also might be a partial explanation why some injured players are going to Florida. They can get their treatment on the road, and it’s only right they get to be part of the special trip.

Reality for Gervais: At one point in practice, Scott Gordon had a quick huddle with seven defensemen, while Gervais took a knee with his three forward linemates for the day.